Q. Benzyl Alcohol is sometimes used as a diluent in coatings. Does the EPA classify
Benzyl Alcohol as a VOC? Could you identify an EPA document that makes this
clear? Thank you for your assistance.

A. Benzyl alcohol is a VOC. There is no document of which I am aware that specifically
mentions benzyl alcohol; however, EPAs definition of VOC applies. Basically,
ALL volatile organic compounds are smog formers (VOC), except for those that
have "negligible photochemical reactivity." The EPA publishes a list of those
that have negligible photochemical reactivity (which the EPA calls "exempt compounds").
Methyl acetate, t-butyl acetate, PCBTF, volatile siloxanes, methylene chloride,
acetone and others are on that list. Benzyl alcohol is not.